How to Obtain a Death Certificate in Ohio

If you have never experienced the passing of a loved one, the first time can be a confusing experience. One of the first steps family members should take is to order certified death certificates. Death certificates are not only needed for probate proceedings, but also for the funeral home, mortgage servicers, pension plans, and life insurance companies. Because of this, it is important to order them and obtain as many certified copies that you need.

1. Determine the Local Health Department.

Death certificates are ordered through the local health department. To find the local one for the deceased, you can visit the Ohio Department of Health’s website at https://www.odh.ohio.gov/ and click on “Local Health Departments.” 

2. Fill Out the Application

Once you have the name of your local department, you may call or visit your website to print and fill out an Application of Certified Copies of the Death Certificate. This application will likely require you to provide documentation that establishes your relationship of the deceased and information surrounding their passing.

3. Pay for the Certificates.

You will also have to pay a fee of approximately $25 a copy. This amount may be more or less depending on which health department you go through. It may not hurt to order additional certified copies as well depending on the nature of the deceased’s assets. 

Once you submit an application, the turnaround time to be issued a certificate of death will be ten (10) days. Keep this in mind if more entities request them throughout the process in administering the estate and resolving the affairs of your loved one.